Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni)

Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic blood fluke (trematode) and the primary causative agent of intestinal schistosomiasis, a major neglected tropical disease prevalent in Africa, the Middle East, and parts of South America [1][2]. The parasite resides within the mesenteric veins of the human host, where it survives for years by employing sophisticated immune evasion strategies and utilizing host erythrocytes for nutrient acquisition [1][5]. Disease pathology is not caused by the worms themselves but by the host's granulomatous inflammatory response to parasite eggs trapped in the liver and intestinal tissues, which can lead to chronic fibrosis and portal hypertension [2][5]. Treatment is primarily limited to praziquantel, which targets the parasite's calcium homeostasis to cause paralysis, though its lack of efficacy against juvenile stages (schistosomula) and the threat of emerging drug resistance remain significant clinical challenges [3][4]. Current research efforts are focused on identifying specific molecular targets within the fluke, such as thioredoxin glutathione reductase (TGR) or histone-modifying enzymes, to develop more comprehensive therapeutic strategies [4].

Other names

Blood flukeManson's blood flukeSchistosoma mansoni (organism)

Praziquantel increases the cell membrane permeability to calcium ions, resulting in tetanic muscle contraction and tegumental disintegration [3]; Oxamniquine is a prodrug activated by a parasite-specific sulfotransferase that binds to the parasite's DNA, inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis [4].